Facebook Getting Digital Movie Rentals

Late last month, Amazon threw down the online movie gauntlet by offering free streaming to all Prime users. The retail giant still lacks the selection to make it a major player on that front, but the move was rightfully considered a warning shot against the likes of Netflix, Hulu, and, to a lesser degree, Apple.

Facebook is apparently dipping its multi-billion dollar toes in the water as well, thanks to a new deal with Warner Bros. The Dark Knight will be first movie to get the Zuckerberg treatment. Facebook users who have friended the superhero flick will get the chance to rent it through the site for 30 Facebook Credits ($3 USD).

The rental deal gives users 48 hours to watch the film on the site. Users will be able to pause the film and will also retain full Facebook functionality while the movie is running. Warner is using the film as a trial run, with the possibility of adding more titles in the future.